revues

A revue is a form of theatrical entertainment that presents a sequence of independent acts, typically including song, dance, and sketches. It emphasizes variety and spectacle over a single narrative, and often incorporates topical or satirical material anchored to a unifying theme or tradition.

The term derives from the French revue, meaning a review or survey, reflecting its structure as a review of performances. Revues developed in 19th-century France, particularly in Paris, as cabaret and music-hall entertainments, and spread to other English-speaking theatres.

On Broadway and in London, revues flourished in the early 20th century as star-studded, lavish productions, with choruses, spectacle, and sketches. Notable examples include the American Ziegfeld Follies and other contemporary revues that mixed satire, musical numbers, and dance. They were distinct from book musicals in that they did not rely on a continuous plot.

Typical content includes topical parody of public figures and current events, musical pastiches, dance-driven numbers, and ensemble performances. Production features commonly involve large casts, chorus lines, elaborate costumes, and high production values.

Legacy: revues influenced later forms of musical theatre by emphasizing variety acts and spectacular numbers, while continuing in fringe, cabaret, and contemporary integrated revues. The term remains in use to describe light, non-narrative theatre shows in some contexts.